04-03-2003 Council Work Session - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO NAVARRE TOWN MEETING Thursday, March 13,2003 7:00 o ’clock p.m. William Wolfe, 32SS Crystal Bay Road, asked what was happening with regard to the Dakota Rail Trail project. As a member of the committee which spearheaded the Dakota Line trail, Gabriel Jabbour stated that he, as well as, Peter Johnson of Mound, continue to work on the project daily. He noted that the biggest obstacle continues to be the objections raised by the Minnetonka Beach community. While Hennepin County purchased the line in hope that it could be turned into a trail, they’ve been forced to put the rail out for bid for anyone who could operate a rail service. Hennepin County also approached the Three Rivers Park District about turning the 44 mile stretch into a walk/bike trail. Mr. Jabbour believed this opportimity would be an enormous amenity to the area and create a pedestrian corridor within Navarre, Spring Park, Mound, and Minnetonka Beach that would tic into the Luce Line. The public applauded Mr. Jabbour’s and the City’s efforts. Mr. Wolfe asked if the trail could potentially act as a light rail corridor into Minneapolis. Jabbour stated that the Dakota Rail trail is identified os #17 on the Minneapolis light rail trail plan, which would put this light years into the future. White felt the future development of the trail to be the tic that links the center of all the lake communities together. Other than the Lake Superior Trail, White believed this trail would be second to none. Evon Paige asked if the vae2:,i parcel ne.xt to the liquor store was contaminated or prime real estate. Mike Gaffron stated that remediation of the vacant Keaveny property had occurred 10-15 years ago. He indicated he is not aware of the current status of the property in terms of the remediation or any plans for redevelopment. Ralph Kempf reiterated that, while current business is vital, he would not wish to apply any undue burden upon the local business owners by requiring them to update too much. He stated that, further west, vacancies arc common place and he would not want that to be the case for Navarre. Mr. Kempf agreed that the addition of trees and/or a defining feature would be nice. Moorse asked for any further comments. Tamara Bomar asked if there were any plans which would include adding accommodations to the area. Jabbour pointed out that new accommodations e.xist in Long Lake and that Mound has plans to build a motel as well. Dan Clear cautioned the Council from taking too great an oixmership position in Navarre, one that would discourage others from coming in. He stated that progress w ill happen, and encouraged the public and Council to keep an open mind. He reminded the public that the traffic, however PAGE 5 of 10